The main causes include residual kit chemicals left in the fabric, residual soiling, soluble fabric finishes and loose dye.
In some cases they can be caused by dirty spotting equipment. Here, the dirt is often dragged into, or beneath, the wire gauze at the narrow end of the spotting table. Often, this dirt can often only be removed by cleaning out the surfaces underneath the table top.
Working quickly is the secret of avoiding ring and sweal formation.
The quicker you work, the less likely that problems will arise.
The size of the rings and sweals affects the way they are treated.
Note that extensive water-based staining should NOT normally be treated on the post spotting table.
Small rings can usually be removed by a quick spray with water, followed immediately by quick drying with warm air from the spotting gun.
Always warm up the heat exchanger by operating the steam gun before you start.
Dry from the outside of the wetted area working in towards the centre.
In the case of large rings, remove the ring or sweal in small segments to avoid the formation of further rings or concentric circles.
Again, it is important to work as quickly as possible.
If you are unable to solve the problem on the spotting table, then apply a levelling agent to the affected area and re-clean. Roger Cawood
